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Abstract:

A torsional sensor for sensing at least one parameter of a fluid is
disclosed. The torsional sensor includes a torsional portion coupled to a
reference portion and including a plurality of projections extending
outward and spaced apart from each other. At least a portion of the
torsional sensor is mountable for immersion in the fluid and operable to
propagate a torsional wave that interacts with the fluid along the at
least portion of the torsional sensor so as to affect propagation of the
torsional wave in a manner dependent on the at least one parameter of the
fluid.

Claims:

1. A torsional sensor for sensing at least one parameter of a fluid, the
torsional sensor comprising: a reference portion; and a torsional portion
coupled to the reference portion and comprising a plurality of
projections extending outward and spaced apart from each other; wherein
at least a portion of the torsional sensor is mountable for immersion in
the fluid and operable to propagate a torsional wave that interacts with
the fluid along the at least portion of the torsional sensor so as to
affect propagation of the torsional wave in a manner dependent on the at
least one parameter of the fluid.

8. The torsional sensor of claim 1, wherein the torsional portion has an
aspect ratio of 1:2 to 1:7.

9. A sensing system for sensing at least one parameter of a fluid, the
sensing system comprising: a torsional sensor comprising a reference
portion; and a torsional portion coupled to the reference portion and
comprising a plurality of projections extending outward and spaced apart
from each other; an excitation device configured to excite a shear wave
energy in the torsional sensor; wherein at least a portion of the
torsional sensor is mountable for immersion in the fluid and operable to
propagate the wave energy that interacts with the fluid along the at
least portion of the torsional sensor so as to affect propagation of the
wave energy in a manner dependent on the at least one parameter of the
fluid; a transducer device configured to provide shear excitation to the
torsional sensor and detect wave energy from the torsional portion; a
processor device configured to determine at least one parameter of the
fluid in response to an output from the transducer device.

16. The sensing system of claim 10, further comprising another torsional
sensor; wherein the one torsional sensor and the other torsional sensor
are disposed at different locations in a conduit.

17. The sensing system of claim 16, wherein the one torsional sensor is
disposed proximate to one side of a wall of the conduit and the other
torsional sensor is disposed between the one torsional sensor and another
side of the wall of the conduit.

18. The sensing system of claim 17, wherein the one torsional sensor is
configured to detect at least one parameter of one fluid of a two-phase
fluid mixture, and the other torsional sensor is configured to detect at
least one parameter of another fluid of the two-phase fluid mixture.

19. The sensing system of claim 10, wherein the torsional portion
comprises a plurality of notches dividing the torsional portion into a
plurality of torsional sub-sections; wherein the wave energy from each
torsional sub-section is representative of at least one parameter
associated with the fluid confined to a corresponding area in a conduit.

20. The sensing system of claim 10, wherein the torsional sensor is
disposed extending across a diameter of a conduit.

21. The sensing system of claim 20, wherein the torsional sensor is
configured to detect at least one parameter of a single-phase fluid, or a
two-phase fluid mixture, or a multi-phase fluid mixture.

22. The sensing system of claim 21, wherein the torsional sensor is
configured to detect density of the single-phase fluid, or an average
density of the two-phase fluid mixture, or a level of each fluid phase of
the multi-phase fluid mixture, or a fraction of each fluid phase of the
multi-phase fluid mixture.

23. The sensing system of claim 20, further comprising another torsional
sensor; wherein the one torsional sensor and the other torsional sensor
are spaced apart by a predetermined distance in the conduit.

24. The sensing system of claim 23, wherein the processor device is
configured to determine at least one parameter of the fluid based on
difference in output response time of the torsional sensors
representative of the wave energy, and the predetermined distance.

25. The sensing system of claim 10, further comprising another torsional
sensor, wherein the one torsional sensor has a first length and the other
torsional sensor has a second length different from the first length and
are disposed at a same location in a conduit.

26. The sensing system of claim 10, comprising a plurality of torsional
sensors disposed spaced apart from each other along a cross-section of a
conduit.

27. The sensing system of claim 9, wherein the reference portion
comprises an enlarged top portion having a recessed side portion; wherein
the transducer device is mounted in the recessed side portion.

28. The sensing system of claim 9, wherein the reference portion
comprises an enlarged top portion, wherein the transducer device is
wrapped around the enlarged top portion.

29. A torsional sensor for sensing at least one parameter of a fluid, the
torsional sensor comprising: a reference portion comprising at least one
notch; and a torsional portion coupled to the reference portion and
comprising a plurality of projections extending outward and spaced apart
from each other; wherein at least a portion of the torsional sensor is
mountable for immersion in the fluid and operable to propagate a
torsional wave that interacts with the fluid along the at least portion
of the torsional sensor so as to affect propagation of the torsional wave
in a manner dependent on the at least one parameter of the fluid; wherein
variation in time of flight of the torsional wave is attributed to change
in at least one parameter of the fluid.

36. A torsional sensor for sensing at least one parameter of a fluid, the
torsional sensor comprising: a reference portion comprising first
material; and a torsional portion coupled to the reference portion and
comprising a plurality of projections extending outward and spaced apart
from each other; wherein the torsional portion comprises a second
material different from the first material; wherein at least a portion of
the torsional sensor is mountable for immersion in the fluid and operable
to propagate a torsional wave that interacts with the fluid along the at
least portion of the torsional sensor so as to affect propagation of the
torsional wave in a manner dependent on the at least one parameter of the
fluid; wherein variation in time of flight of the torsional wave along
the torsional sensor is attributed to change in at least one parameter of
the fluid.

37. A torsional sensor for sensing at least one parameter of a fluid, the
torsional sensor comprising: a reference portion comprising at least one
notch dividing the reference portions into two or more sub-sections; and
a torsional portion coupled to the reference portion and comprising a
plurality of projections extending outward and spaced apart from each
other; wherein the reference portion and the torsional portion comprises
same material; wherein at least a portion of the torsional sensor is
mountable for immersion in the fluid and operable to propagate a
torsional wave that interacts with the fluid along the at least portion
of the torsional sensor so as to affect propagation of the torsional wave
in a manner dependent on the at least one parameter of the fluid; wherein
variation in time of flight of the torsional wave along the torsional
sensor is attributed to change in at least one parameter of the fluid.

38. A method for sensing at least one parameter of a fluid, the method
comprising: exciting a wave energy in a torsional sensor partially
immersed in the fluid via an excitation device so as to propagate the
wave energy that interacts with the fluid along at least a portion of the
torsional sensor so as to affect propagation of the wave energy in a
manner dependent on the at least one parameter of the fluid, wherein the
torsional sensor comprises a reference portion; and a torsional portion
coupled to the reference portion and comprising a plurality of
projections extending outward and spaced apart from each other; providing
torsional excitation to the torsional sensor and detecting wave energy
from the torsional portion via a transducer device; determining at least
one parameter of the fluid in response to an output from the transducer
device.

40. The method of claim 39, comprising sensing at least one parameter of
a single-phase fluid, or a two-phase fluid mixture, or a multi-phase
fluid mixture.

41. The method of claim 38, comprising exciting the wave energy in the
torsional sensor comprising the torsional portion having a plurality of
individual projections extending outward from a center section and spaced
apart from each other.

42. The method of claim 41, comprising exciting the wave energy in the
torsional sensor comprising the plurality of individual projections
disposed symmetrically about the center section of the torsional portion.

43. The method of claim 41, comprising exciting the wave energy in the
torsional sensor comprising the plurality of individual projections
disposed asymmetrically about the center section of the torsional
portion.

Description:

BACKGROUND

[0001] The invention relates generally to a torsional sensor used for
measurement of at least one parameter of a fluid by the propagation of
torsional wave energy along the torsional sensor located partially in
contact with the fluid.

[0002] In industrial process control, it is often required to determine at
least one parameter attributed to fluids along flow paths, for example in
pipes. The parameters may include density of the fluid, fluid velocity,
fluid level, temperature, fluid phase, or the like. There are a number of
known sensors, which are used for detection of parameters associated with
the fluids.

[0003] One such sensor used for detection of parameters associated with
the fluids is a torsional sensor. In such a device, the torsional sensor
is partially inserted into the fluid whose property needs to be measured.
Wave energy is guided along the sensor held partially in contact with the
fluid. The parameter of the fluid surrounding the torsional sensor
influences the torsional wave characteristics, specifically the time of
flight of the wave mode. In other words, the interaction of the guided
wave energy along the sensor with the fluid results in a lower velocity
of propagation of the guided wave energy along the sensor, so that the
change in flight time of the wave, as compared to a reference time with
the sensor in air or vacuum, provides an indication of a parameter of the
fluid in contact with the sensor. In particular circumstances, where at
least one of the fluid composition, container geometry and sensor
characteristics are known, a measurement of flight time of the wave
energy guided along the sensor may provide an indication of a parameter
of the fluid. However, none of the known torsional sensor designs results
in an improvement in measurement of at least one parameter through a
longer time of flight for a given wave mode. Moreover, the known
torsional sensor designs are not suitable for measurement of at least one
parameter of different type of fluids, specifically, one phase fluid,
two-phase fluid mixture, and multi-phase fluid mixture.

[0004] As a result, there is a continued need for an improved torsional
sensor that addresses at least one of these and other shortcomings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0005] In accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, a torsional sensor for sensing at least one parameter of a
fluid is disclosed. The torsional sensor includes a torsional portion
coupled to a reference portion and including a plurality of projections
extending outward and spaced apart from each other. At least a portion of
the torsional sensor is mountable for immersion in the fluid and operable
to propagate a torsional wave that interacts with the fluid along the at
least portion of the torsional sensor so as to affect propagation of the
torsional wave in a manner dependent on the at least one parameter of the
fluid.

[0006] In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, a sensing system for sensing at least one parameter of a fluid
is disclosed. The sensing system includes a torsional sensor having a
torsional portion coupled to a reference portion and including a
plurality of projections extending outward and spaced apart from each
other. An excitation device is configured to excite a wave energy in the
torsional sensor. At least a portion of the torsional sensor is mountable
for immersion in the fluid and operable to propagate the wave energy that
interacts with the fluid along the at least portion of the torsional
sensor so as to affect propagation of the wave energy in a manner
dependent on the at least one parameter of the fluid. A transducer device
is configured to provide torsional excitation to the torsional sensor and
detect wave energy from the torsional portion. A processor device is
configured to determine at least one parameter of the fluid in response
to an output from the transducer device.

[0007] In accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, a torsional sensor for sensing at least one parameter of a
fluid is disclosed. The torsional sensor includes a reference portion
having at least one notch.

[0008] In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, a torsional sensor for sensing at least one parameter of a
fluid is disclosed. The sensor includes a reference portion including a
first material. A torsional portion is coupled to the reference portion
and includes a plurality of projections extending outward and spaced
apart from each other. The torsional portion includes a second material
different from the first material.

[0009] In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, a torsional sensor for sensing at least one parameter of a
fluid is disclosed. The sensor includes a reference portion having at
least one notch dividing the reference portions into two or more
sub-sections. A torsional portion is coupled to the reference portion and
having a plurality of projections extending outward and spaced apart from
each other. The reference portion and the torsional portion include same
material.

[0010] In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, a method for sensing at least one parameter of a fluid is
disclosed.

DRAWINGS

[0011] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present
invention will become better understood when the following detailed
description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which
like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0012]FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a sensing system for sensing at least
one parameter of a fluid flowing through a conduit in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0013]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary torsional sensor in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0014]FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary torsional portion
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0015]FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary torsional portion
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0016]FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary torsional portion
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0017]FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary torsional portion
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0018]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an exemplary torsional sensor in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary torsional sensor in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0020]FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary torsional portion
in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 8;

[0021]FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of an exemplary torsional portion
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0022]FIG. 11 is a cross sectional of an exemplary torsional portion in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0023]FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of an exemplary torsional portion
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0024]FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of an exemplary torsional portion
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0025]FIG. 14 is a cross sectional view of an exemplary torsional portion
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0026]FIG. 15 is a section of an exemplary torsional portion in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0027]FIG. 16 is a side view of a transducer device disposed on an
exemplary torsional sensor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention;

[0028]FIG. 17 is a section of a transducer device wrapped around a
reference portion of an exemplary torsional sensor in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0029]FIG. 18 is a graph representing variation of an amplitude versus
time of a propagating wave along an exemplary torsional sensor in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0030]FIG. 19 is a sectional view of two torsional sensors disposed in a
conduit in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;

[0031]FIG. 20 is a sectional view of a torsional sensor disposed in a
conduit in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;

[0032]FIG. 21 is a sectional view of a torsional sensor disposed in a
conduit in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;

[0033]FIG. 22 is a sectional view of two torsional sensors disposed in a
conduit in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;

[0034]FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view of a plurality of torsional
sensors disposed along a section of a conduit in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0035]FIG. 24 is a sectional view of a torsional sensor disposed in a
conduit in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;

[0036] FIG. 25 is a sectional view of two torsional sensors disposed in a
conduit in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;

[0037]FIG. 26 is a front view of a torsional sensor in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

[0038]FIG. 27 is a front view of a torsional sensor in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] As discussed herein below, embodiments of the present invention
discloses a torsional sensor for sensing at least one parameter of a
fluid. The torsional sensor includes a reference portion and a torsional
portion coupled to the reference portion. The torsional portion includes
a plurality of projections extending outward and spaced apart from each
other. The aspect ratio of the torsional portion may be varied. The
aspect ratio may be in the range of but not limited to 1:2 to 1:7. At
least a portion of the torsional sensor is mountable for immersion in the
fluid and operable to propagate a torsional wave that interacts with the
fluid along the at least portion of the torsional sensor so as to affect
propagation of the torsional wave in a manner dependent on the at least
one parameter of the fluid. The at least one parameter include absolute
density, density profile, fluid level, absolute temperature, temperature
profile, absolute viscosity, viscosity profile, absolute flow velocity,
flow velocity profile, absolute fluid phase fraction, fluid phase
fraction profile, or combinations thereof of the fluid. The fluid may
include a single-phase fluid, or a two-phase fluid mixture, or a
multi-phase fluid mixture. In a specific embodiment, a system
incorporating the torsional sensor is disclosed. The exemplary torsional
sensor design provides substantial improvement in resolution for
measurement of at least one parameter of a single-phase fluid, or a
two-phase fluid mixture, or a multi-phase fluid mixture.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 1, a block diagram of a sensing system 10 for
sensing at least one parameter of a fluid 12 flowing through a conduit 14
is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment and subsequent embodiments,
the conduit may be a vertical arrangement or a horizontal arrangement. It
should be noted that even though a conduit is disclosed, the sensing
system 10 is applicable to any device containing a fluid for sensing at
least one parameter attributed to the fluid in both static and flowing
conditions. The system 10 includes a torsional sensor 16 partially
immersed in the fluid 12 flowing through the conduit 14. The torsional
sensor 16 includes a reference portion 18 and a torsional portion 20. In
a specific embodiment, the reference portion 18 is a cylindrical-shaped
reference portion. The depth of the torsional sensor 16 immersed in the
fluid 12 may be varied.

[0041] The system 10 further includes an excitation device 21 having a
wave generator 22 configured to transmit shear wave energy via an
amplifier 24 to the torsional sensor 16. A transducer device 26 is
configured to provide shear excitation to the torsional sensor 16. The
ultrasonic guided wave, which propagates along the torsional sensor 16,
detects the presence and nature of the surrounding fluid 12. When the
torsional sensor 16 is partially immersed in the fluid 12, the
propagation of wave is affected by at least one parameter of the fluid
12. Hence at least one parameter of the fluid 12 can be measured by
detecting the propagation of wave energy along the sensor 16. At least
one parameter includes absolute density, density profile, fluid level,
absolute temperature, temperature profile, absolute viscosity, viscosity
profile, absolute flow velocity, flow velocity profile, absolute fluid
phase fraction, fluid phase fraction profile, or combinations thereof of
the fluid 12. The fluid 12 may include a single-phase fluid, or a
two-phase fluid mixture, or a multi-phase fluid mixture. It should be
noted herein that a two-phase fluid mixture, or a multi-phase fluid
mixture might include two or more fluids having different densities. For
example, a multi-phase fluid mixture may include oil, water, and gas. The
excitation source and receiver may be, piezoelectric, curved
piezoelectric, phased array magneto strictive, Laser-based
electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT), phased EMAT and Membrane. The
application of the exemplary sensor 16 to all such types of fluid is
envisaged.

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, the transducer device 26 is also
configured to detect the wave energy from the torsional portion 20 of the
sensor 16. A corresponding output signal from the transducer device 26 is
fed via a digital oscilloscope 28 to a processor device 30, for example,
a computer. The processor device 30 is configured to determine at least
one parameter of the fluid 12 in response to the output signal from the
transducer device 30. It should be noted herein that the configuration of
the sensing system 10 is an exemplary embodiment and should not construed
in any way as limiting the scope of the invention. The exemplary sensor
16 is applicable to any application requiring detection of at least one
parameter attributed to the fluid 12 in which the fluid is contained in a
vessel or flowing through a conduit. Typical examples include petroleum
industry, oil & gas, or the like. The exemplary sensor design and
arrangement of sensors are explained in greater detail with reference to
subsequent embodiments.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 2, a perspective view of an exemplary torsional
sensor 32 is illustrated. The torsional sensor 32 includes a reference
portion 34 and a torsional portion 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the
reference portion 34 is a cylindrical-shaped reference portion and the
torsional portion 36 is a X-shaped torsional portion. The torsional
portion 36 includes a plurality of projections 38 extending outward
extending outward and spaced apart from each other. Specifically, the
torsional portion 36 includes the plurality of individual projections 38
disposed symmetrically about a center section 40 of the torsional portion
36.

[0044] As discussed previously, the torsional sensor 32 utilizes change in
speed of wave energy propagating along the torsional portion 36 due to
the presence of surrounding fluid medium to detect at least one parameter
of the fluid medium. As the shear wave propagates through the torsional
portion 36 of the sensor 32, acceleration and deceleration of fluid
surrounding the torsional portion 36 occurs. Normal forces are exerted on
the surface of the torsional portion 36, which in turn act on the
surrounding fluid. The fluid motion surrounding the torsional portion 36
is induced by the normal velocity component of velocity at a fluid-solid
interface and also by the viscous drag of the surrounding fluid. As a
result, the fluid is trapped at corners of the torsional portion 36
affecting the propagation of the wave energy. In other words, the
propagation of the wave energy is attributed to the inertial of the
surrounding fluid. At least one parameter of the surrounding fluid medium
can be detected by determining speed of propagating wave energy.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 3, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary
torsional portion 42 is illustrated. The torsional portion 42 is an
X-shaped torsional portion. The torsional portion 42 includes a plurality
of projections 44, 45 extending outward from a center section 46 and
spaced apart from each other. The plurality of projections 44, 45 are
disposed symmetrically about the center section 46. In a specific
embodiment, the distance between two projections 44 may be in the range
of 3 mm to 50 mm. In another specific embodiment, the distance between
two projections 45 may be in the range of 3 mm to 50 mm. In yet another
specific embodiment, the distance between a projection 44 and another
projection 45 may be in the range of 1 mm to 17 mm. The distance between
opposing intersection points of the projections 44, 45 may be in the
range of 1 mm to 20 mm.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 4, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary
torsional portion 48 is illustrated. The torsional portion 48 is an
X-shaped torsional portion The torsional portion 48 includes a plurality
of projections 50, 51 extending outward from a center section 52 and
spaced apart from each other. The plurality of projections 50, 51 are
disposed asymmetrically about the center section 52. The distance between
the projections 50, 51 may be in the range of 3 mm to 50 mm. The distance
between the intersections points 53, 55 may be in the range of 1 mm to 17
mm. The distance between the intersection points 53, 57 may be in the
range of 0.5 mm to 8.5 mm.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 5, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary
torsional portion 54 is illustrated. The torsional portion 54 is an
X-shaped torsional portion The torsional portion 54 includes a plurality
of projections 56 extending outward from a center section 58 and spaced
apart from each other. The plurality of projections 56 are disposed
symmetrically about the center section 58.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 6, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary
torsional portion 60 is illustrated. The torsional portion 42 is an
X-shaped torsional portion The torsional portion 60 includes a plurality
of projections 62 extending outward from a center section 64 and spaced
apart from each other. The plurality of projections 62 are disposed
symmetrically asymmetrically about the center section 64.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 7, a perspective view of an exemplary torsional
sensor 66 is illustrated. The torsional sensor 66 includes a reference
portion 68 and a torsional portion 70. In the illustrated embodiment, the
reference portion 68 is a cylindrical-shaped reference portion and the
torsional portion 70 is a fan-shaped torsional portion. The torsional
portion 70 includes one projection 72 extending outwards or a plurality
of projections 70 extending outward and spaced apart from each other.
Specifically, the torsional portion 70 includes the plurality of
individual projections 72 disposed symmetrically about a center section
74 of the torsional portion 70.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 8, a perspective view of an exemplary torsional
sensor 76 is illustrated. The torsional sensor 76 includes a reference
portion 78 and a torsional portion 80. In the illustrated embodiment, the
reference portion 78 is a cylindrical-shaped reference portion and the
torsional portion 80 is a curved fan-shaped torsional portion. The
torsional portion 80 includes one projection 82 extending outward or a
plurality of projections 80 extending outward and spaced apart from each
other. Specifically, the torsional portion 80 includes the plurality of
individual projections 82 disposed symmetrically about a center section
84 of the torsional portion 80.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 9, a cross-sectional view of the torsional
portion 80 is illustrated. The torsional portion 80 includes the
plurality of individual projections 82 disposed symmetrically about a
center section 84 of the torsional portion 80. The distance from a tip of
one projection 82 to a tip of the adjacent projection 80 may be in the
range of 3 mm to 50 mm. The base of each projection 80 has a length in
the range of 1 mm to 20 mm. The distance from the tip of each projection
80 to a curvature portion 81 of the adjacent projection 80 may be in the
range of 2 mm to 33 mm.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 10, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary star
shaped torsional portion 86 is illustrated. The torsional portion 86
includes a plurality of projections 88, 91, 93 extending outward from a
center section 90 and spaced apart from each other. The plurality of
projections 88, 91, 93 are disposed symmetrically about the center
section 90. In one embodiment, the distance between tips of two
projections 88 may be in the range of 3 mm to 50 mm. In another specific
embodiment, the distance between tips of two projections 91 may be in the
range of 1 mm to 17 mm. In yet another specific embodiment, the distance
between a tip of one projection 91 and a tip of the projection 93 may be
in the range of 3 mm to 50 mm. In yet another embodiment, the distance
between intersection points 95, 97 may be in the range of 0.5 mm to 7 mm.
In another specific embodiment, the distance between intersection points
99, 101 may be in the range of 0.6 mm to 8.5 mm.

[0053] It should be noted herein that the dimensions disclosed in the
embodiments discussed above are exemplary values and should not be
construed in any way as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 11, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary star
shaped torsional portion 92 is illustrated. The torsional portion 92
includes a plurality of projections 94 extending outward from a center
section 96 and spaced apart from each other. The plurality of projections
94 are disposed symmetrically about the center section 96.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 12, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary star
shaped torsional portion 98 is illustrated. The torsional portion 98
includes a plurality of projections 100 extending outward from a center
section 102 and spaced apart from each other. The plurality of
projections 100 are disposed symmetrically about the center section 102.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 13, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary star
torsional portion 104 is illustrated. The torsional portion 104 includes
a plurality of projections 106 extending outward from a center section
108 and spaced apart from each other. The plurality of projections 106
are disposed symmetrically about the center section 108.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 14, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary
torsional portion 110 is illustrated. The torsional portion 110 includes
a plurality of projections 112 extending outward and spaced apart from
each other.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 15, a section 114 of an exemplary torsional
portion is illustrated.

[0059] Although various shapes of the torsional portion are disclosed
herein, combinations of all such shapes of the torsional portion are also
envisaged.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 16, a side view of an arrangement of an exemplary
sensor 111 and a transducer device 113 is illustrated. In the illustrated
embodiment, the sensor 111 includes a reference portion 115 and a
torsional portion 117. The reference portion 113 includes an enlarged top
portion 119 having a recessed side portion 121. The transducer device 113
is mounted to the recessed side portion 121 of the reference portion 113.
Such an arrangement is applicable to any of the embodiments discussed
herein.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 17, a side view of an arrangement of a reference
portion 115 and a transducer device 113 is disclosed. The reference
portion 115 includes an enlarged top portion 119 and the transducer
device 113 is wrapped around the enlarged top portion 119.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 18, a graphical representation illustrating
variation in amplitude of output signals representative of wave energy
from a torsional portion of a sensor with respect to time (in seconds) is
illustrated. As discussed above, the transducer device is also configured
to detect the wave energy from the torsional portion of the sensor. A
corresponding output signal from the transducer device is fed via the
digital oscilloscope to the processor device. The processor device is
configured to determine at least one parameter of the fluid in response
to the output signal from the transducer device.

[0063] The velocity of the propagation wave in the torsional portion is
determined by measuring the time of arrival of wave at two locations of
the torsional sensor. A reference signal 116 is the signal transmitted
from an interface between the reference portion and the torsional portion
of the sensor. Signal 118 is the signal transmitted from an end of the
torsional portion of the sensor. For example, with reference to FIG. 2, a
reference signal is the signal transmitted from an interface between the
reference portion 34 and the torsional portion 36 of the sensor 32. The
other signal is the signal transmitted from an end of the torsional
portion 36 of the sensor 32. Again referring to FIG. 18, a time from a
peak 120 of the reference signal 116 to a peak 122 of the signal 118 is
referred to as "time of flight" 124. The velocity of the propagation wave
is calculated based on the time of flight 124.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 19, a sectional view of an arrangement of two
torsional sensors 126, 128 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment,
the two sensors 126, 128 are disposed at different locations in a conduit
130. The sensor 126 has a reference portion 132 and a torsional portion
134. The sensor 126 is disposed proximate to one side 136 of a wall 138
of the conduit 130. The sensor 128 has a reference portion 140 and a
torsional portion 142. The sensor 128 is disposed between the sensor 126
and another side 146 of the wall 138 of the conduit 130. Specifically,
the sensor 128 is disposed between a central axis 144 and another side
146 of the wall 138 of the conduit 130.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, each sensor is subjected to a pulse
echo mode of operation in which a transducer device is used for both
generating and receiving the torsional wave energy. One echo corresponds
to reflection of torsional wave energy from the interface between the
reference portion and the torsional portion of the corresponding sensor
and the other echo corresponds to reflection of torsional wave energy
from an end of the corresponding sensor. In all the embodiments disclosed
herein, each sensor may also subjected to a through transmission mode of
operation in which one transducer device is used for generating torsional
wave energy and another transducer device is used for receiving torsional
wave energy.

[0066] In a specific embodiment, a two-phase fluid mixture flows through
the conduit 130. For example, the two-phase fluid mixture includes oil
and water. One sensor 126 is configured to detect density of one fluid,
for example oil. The other sensor 128 is configured to detect density of
the other fluid, for example water. In the illustrated embodiment, the
sensors 126, 128 are disposed in the same location in the conduit 130. It
should be noted herein that in the embodiments discussed herein, the
number of sensors and the location of the sensors should not be construed
as limiting. The sensor arrangement is also applicable for detection of
other parameters of the fluid mixture. The sensor arrangement is also
applicable for any single-phase fluid, two-phase fluid mixture, and
multi-phase fluid mixture.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 20, a sectional view of an arrangement of a
torsional sensor 148 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the
sensor 148 is disposed in a conduit 150. In the illustrated embodiment,
the sensor 148 includes a plurality of notches 152 for dividing a
torsional portion 154 into a plurality of torsional sub-sections 156. The
wave energy from each torsional sub-section 156 is representative of at
least one parameter associated with the fluid confined to a corresponding
area in the conduit 150. For example, one torsional sub-section may be
indicative of density, and another sub-section may be indicative of phase
fraction.

[0068] It should be noted herein that the exemplary sensor arrangement is
also applicable for detection of other parameters of the fluid. The
exemplary sensor arrangement is also applicable for any single-phase
fluid, two-phase fluid mixture, and multi-phase fluid mixture.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 21, a sectional view of an arrangement of a
torsional sensor 158 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the
sensor 158 is disposed extending across a diameter of a conduit 160. In
one embodiment, the torsional sensor 158 is configured to detect density
of a single-phase fluid. In another embodiment, the torsional sensor 158
is configured to detect an average density of a two-phase fluid mixture.
In yet another embodiment, the torsional sensor 158 is configured to
detect a level of each fluid phase of a multi-phase fluid mixture, when
each fluid phase is confined to a corresponding area in the conduit 160.
In yet another embodiment, the torsional sensor 160 is configured to
detect fraction of each fluid phase of a multi-phase fluid mixture, when
the phases are distributed in the conduit 160. The exemplary sensor
arrangement is also applicable for detection of other parameters of a
fluid/fluid mixture. The exemplary sensor arrangement is also applicable
for any single-phase fluid, two-phase fluid mixture, and multi-phase
fluid mixture.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 22, a sectional view of an arrangement of two
torsional sensors 162, 164 is illustrated. The sensors 162, 164 are
disposed at different locations in a conduit 166. In the illustrated
embodiment, sensors 162, 164 are spaced apart by a predetermined distance
(L) in the conduit 166. In a specific embodiment, a correlation between
an output response time of the sensor 162 and an output response time of
the sensor 164 may be indicative of phase velocity of a fluid. For
example, if an output response time of the sensor 162 is indicated by
"t1" and an output response time of the sensor 164 is indicated by "t2",
then phase velocity of the fluid is determined by the relation:

t 2 - t 1 L ( 1 ) ##EQU00001##

[0071] As in the previous embodiments, the number of sensors and the
location of the sensors should not be construed as limiting. The sensor
arrangement is also applicable for detection of other parameters of a
fluid/fluid mixture. The sensor arrangement is also applicable for any
single-phase fluid, two-phase fluid mixture, and multi-phase fluid
mixture.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 23, a cross-sectional view of an arrangement of a
plurality of torsional sensors 168 is illustrated. In the illustrated
embodiment, the plurality of torsional sensors 168 are disposed spaced
apart from each other along a cross-section of a conduit 170. In a
specific embodiment, the sensors 168 are configured to determine density
profile of a two/multi-phase fluid mixture. In another embodiment, the
sensors 168 are configured to determine phase fraction of each fluid
phase of a two/multi-phase fluid mixture. Here again, the number of
sensors should not be construed as limiting. The sensor arrangement is
also applicable for detection of other parameters of the fluid mixture.
The sensor arrangement is also applicable for any single-phase fluid,
two-phase fluid mixture, and multi-phase fluid mixture.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 24, a sectional view of an arrangement of a
torsional sensor 172 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the
sensor 172 is disposed extending across a conduit 174. The sensor 172 is
configured to detect at least one parameter of each fluid phase of a
two/multi-phase fluid mixture. In one embodiment, when a two-phase fluid
mixture flows through the conduit 174, an output response of the sensor
172 at a first time may be indicative of phase density or phase fraction
of one fluid phase, and another output response of the sensor at a second
time later than the first time may be indicative of phase density or
phase fraction of another fluid phase. The exemplary sensor arrangement
is also applicable for detection of other parameters of the fluid
mixture. The sensor arrangement is also applicable for any single-phase
fluid, two-phase fluid mixture, and multi-phase fluid mixture.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 25, a sectional view of an arrangement of two
torsional sensors 176, 178 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment,
the sensors 176, 178 are disposed at a same location of a conduit 180.
The torsional sensor 176 has a first length and the other torsional
sensor 178 has a second length different from the first length. In one
embodiment, when a two-phase fluid mixture flows through the conduit 180,
one sensor 176 may be configured to phase density or phase fraction of
one fluid phase and the other sensor 178 may be configured to phase
density or phase fraction of other fluid phase. The exemplary sensor
arrangement is also applicable for detection of other parameters of the
fluid mixture. The sensor arrangement is also applicable for any
single-phase fluid, two-phase fluid mixture, and multi-phase fluid
mixture.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 26, a front view of an exemplary torsional sensor
182 is illustrated. The sensor 182 includes a reference portion 184 and a
torsional portion 186. In the illustrated embodiment, the reference
portion 184 includes two notches or grooves 188, 189 for dividing the
reference portion 184 into a plurality of sub-sections 190. The reference
portion 184 and the torsional portion 186 include same material. As
discussed previously, the torsional sensor 182 utilizes change in speed
of wave energy propagating along the torsional portion 186 due to the
presence of a surrounding fluid medium to detect at least one parameter
of the fluid medium.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, the torsional portion 186 and a
portion of the reference portion 184 with the notch 189 is immersed in
the fluid medium. As discussed previously, the velocity of the
propagation wave is calculated based on the time of flight of the
propagation wave. In one embodiment, it should be noted that any
variation in time of flight of the torsional wave along the torsional
sensor 182 is attributed to change in at least one parameter of the
fluid, for example temperature. The time of flight of the propagation
wave is calibrated for a particular temperature and the time of flight is
corrected based on the calibration for determining at least one parameter
of the fluid. One notch 188 is a reference region corresponding to the
portion of the sensor 182 exposed to air and the other notch 190 is a
reference region corresponding to the portion of the sensor 182 immersed
in the fluid. In another embodiment, instead of having notches in the
reference portion 184, both the reference portion 184 and the torsional
portion 186 may include different material. In other words, the reference
portion 184 may include a first material and the torsional portion 186
may include a second material. The exemplary sensor arrangement is also
applicable for detection of other parameters of the fluid mixture. The
sensor arrangement is also applicable for any single-phase fluid,
two-phase fluid mixture, and multi-phase fluid mixture

[0077] Referring to FIG. 27, a front view of an exemplary torsional sensor
192 is illustrated. The sensor 192 includes a reference portion 194 and a
torsional portion 196. In the illustrated embodiment, the reference
portion 194 includes a notches or groove 195 for dividing the reference
portion 194 into two sub-sections 196. The reference portion 194 and the
torsional portion 196 include same material.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the torsional portion 196 and a
portion of the reference portion 196 with the notch 195 is immersed in
the fluid medium. It should be noted herein that any variation in time of
flight of the torsional wave along the torsional sensor 192 is attributed
to change in at least one parameter of the fluid, for example viscosity.
In the illustrated embodiment, the time of flight of the propagation wave
is calibrated for a particular viscosity and the time of flight is
corrected based on the calibration for determining at least one parameter
of the fluid. In another embodiment, instead of having the notch 195 in
the reference portion 194, both the reference portion 194 and the
torsional portion 196 may include different material. In other words, the
reference portion 194 may include a first material and the torsional
portion 196 may include a second material.

[0079] As discussed with reference to the embodiments discussed above, the
shaped of the sensor provides resistance to the propagating torsional
wave in the presence of the fluid surrounding the torsional portion. This
resistance manifests in the change in time of flight of the propagating
wave. The exemplary sensor shape and arrangement provides drag to the
propagating wave and increases the time of flight resulting in enhanced
resolution of the sensor for measuring one or more parameters of the
fluid.

[0080] While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated
and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those
skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended
claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall
within the true spirit of the invention.

Patent applications by Baskaran Ganesan, Bangalore IN

Patent applications by Edward Randall Furlong, Beverly, MA US

Patent applications by Manoj Kumar Koyithitta Meethal, Bangalore IN

Patent applications by Shivappa Ningappa Goravar, Bangalore IN

Patent applications by Vamshi Krishna Reddy Kommareddy, Bangalore IN

Patent applications by Xiaolei Shirley Ao, Lexington, MA US

Patent applications by GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY

Patent applications in class Involving vibration of substance or the measuring apparatus

Patent applications in all subclasses Involving vibration of substance or the measuring apparatus